The Pushkinsky Jewel — Vonsung

'the pushkinsky jewel' by vonsung, located in moscow, russiaimages courtesy of vonsung

london based practice vonsung has sent us images of 'the pushkinsky jewel' a finalist proposal for the redesign of an existing

cinema in moscow, russia. centrally located in pushkin square, a neglected yet landmark theater is now part of a city revival

process and has become the focus of an international competition. seeking to display the historical building in a manner similar

to that of a jewel in a glass box, the proposal appears to place the original structure within a transparent container.

front of theater from pushkin square

the design features a walk-around gallery which serves as a mediating corridor connecting the iconic square with the historical cinema space. the transparency creates a visual exchange between visitors on the interior and exterior of the building, re-establishing the cinema as a part of the vibrant city center. encasing the currently open air balcony with a glass curtain wall and ceiling will allow the space to be used during all seasons and weather conditions. the northwest and southeast facades will be preserved and restored to their original state to further maintain the structures stately presence.